Mayor Matthew Moench has proposed a sweeping update to Bridgewater’s zoning regulations that would impose new restrictions on data centers, prohibit immigration detention facilities and prisons, and regulate outdoor residential lighting.
The omnibus ordinance is scheduled to be introduced by the Township Council on Thursday. A public hearing and final vote would be held at a later meeting.
The proposal, developed following recommendations in Bridgewater’s recently adopted master plan, represents one of the township’s most extensive zoning reviews in recent years. It would revise definitions, application procedures and fee schedules while addressing emerging land-use issues that are largely absent from existing municipal regulations.
Among the most significant changes are Bridgewater’s first comprehensive zoning standards for data centers, a rapidly growing industry that has faced increased scrutiny over its immense energy and water demands.
The ordinance would establish requirements governing energy infrastructure, renewable energy use, noise, water consumption, environmental effects, heat recovery and the eventual decommissioning of data center facilities. It would also include protections intended to prevent the cost of providing power to data centers from being passed on to existing utility customers.
Another provision would explicitly prohibit prisons, jails, immigration detention centers and other carceral facilities anywhere in Bridgewater.
The ordinance also creates residential lighting standards intended to prevent excessively bright exterior lights from interfering with neighboring properties. Homeowners would still be permitted to use reasonable security lighting, including motion-activated systems.
Changes in the occupancy or use of non-residential properties would require zoning permits under the proposal, giving township officials greater oversight as commercial properties change tenants or owners. The measure also clarifies regulations for cooperative sober living residences and other specialized land uses, while maintaining standards intended to ensure compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods.
“This ordinance is about looking ahead instead of reacting after challenges arrive,” Moench said. “We will solve tomorrow’s problems before they become today’s emergencies.”
Moench, a rising star in New Jersey politics, said the measure would allow Bridgewater to prepare for emerging technologies, protect residential neighborhoods and ensure the township’s zoning code keeps pace with changing commercial uses.
The ordinance also carries out a master plan recommendation that Bridgewater periodically review its land-use rules, remove outdated provisions and update its regulations to reflect changing development trends.
If the council, which is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans, advances the ordinance Thursday, it will need to hold a public hearing before taking a final vote.